The novel and powerful ICD-11 classification system for neoplasm coding: a comparative study with the ICD-O

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Oncology Coding Systems

Background:

• The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and ICD for Oncology (ICD-O) are established global classification systems.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) released the initial ICD-11 in 2018, incorporating ICD-O's morphology section.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide ICD-11 users with a comprehensive understanding of its neoplasm classifications.
• To analyze the differences and relationships between ICD-11 and ICD-O regarding coding framework, compatibility, and intelligence.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of ICD-11 and ICD-O coding structures.
• Evaluation of ICD-11's features for neoplasm classification.

Main Results:

• ICD-11 features distinct coding structures compared to ICD-O.
• ICD-11 advantages include integrated histopathology, enhanced statistical data through stem codes, support for ICD-O morphology, and multiaxial coding via extension codes.
• ICD-11's Foundation Component, linearization, and update mechanisms ensure compatibility, supported by WHO's smart coding tools and simultaneous use of statistical codes and URIs.

Conclusions:

• ICD-11 is a novel classification system with superior capabilities for neoplasm coding.
• Key features like enhanced statistics, multiaxial coding, granularity, compatibility, and intelligence make ICD-11 more powerful than ICD-O.
• ICD-11 effectively meets stakeholder needs for neoplasm classification.